Workforce, skills and education
With massive investment in schools and further education, a ready workforce
is one of Rochdale’s best assets.
We have a diverse, growing economy with a strong manufacturing focus as
well as a growing service sector and an abundance of information and technology
companies. Almost 7,000 businesses employ in excess of 74,000 people and
there is a working population of 145,000.
Rochdale borough has 75 primary schools, 14 secondary schools (of which four
have a sixth form), six special schools and within a ten mile radius there
are 38 independent schools. Rochdale is also to benefit from over £150
million between 2009 and 2014 through the Government’s Building Schools
for the Future scheme.
Huge investment in Hopwood
Hall College’s two campuses in Rochdale and Middleton will enhance its already
impressive facilities, range of courses and training for more than 11,000
students.
We are also on the doorstep of one of Europe’s largest university
complexes. The five universities across the Manchester city region cater
for more than 100,000 students.
The borough has been ranked first for sustained improvements for achievements
at Key Stage 2 for its 75 primary schools and is one of only seven local authorities
in England to be awarded Beacon Status for Healthy Schools. |
